In South Africa, the braai (barbecue) is more than just a cooking method – it’s a cherished tradition that brings friends and family together to celebrate food, culture, and camaraderie. From succulent meats to flavorful sides, South African braais offer a feast for the senses, showcasing the country’s diverse culinary heritage. Whether you’re firing up the grill in your backyard or gathering around a communal braai pit, these eight traditional recipes will help you capture the essence of South African cooking and create unforgettable memories with your loved ones.
- Boerewors:
Boerewors, meaning “farmer’s sausage” in Afrikaans, is a staple of South African cuisine and a must-have at any braai. Made from a blend of beef, pork, and spices, boerewors is coiled into sausage links and grilled to perfection over an open flame. Serve it hot off the grill with freshly baked bread rolls and your favorite condiments for a deliciously satisfying meal. - Sosaties:
Sosaties are South African skewers marinated in a sweet and tangy sauce, typically made with apricot jam, curry powder, and vinegar. Traditionally, sosaties are made with lamb or beef cubes, interspersed with onions, peppers, and dried fruit, then grilled until caramelized and tender. Serve sosaties as a flavorful appetizer or main dish, accompanied by fragrant rice or couscous. - Pap and Sous (Maize Porridge):
Pap and sous is a quintessential South African comfort food, featuring maize porridge served with a savory tomato and onion relish. Pap, similar to polenta or grits, is made from finely ground maize meal cooked with water until thick and creamy. The sous, or relish, is made by simmering onions, tomatoes, garlic, and spices until thick and flavorful. Enjoy pap and sous as a hearty side dish to complement grilled meats or vegetables. - Braaibroodjies:
Braaibroodjies, meaning “barbecue sandwiches” in Afrikaans, are a beloved South African braai staple. These grilled sandwiches feature layers of cheese, tomato, onion, and chutney sandwiched between slices of buttered bread, then toasted on the braai until golden and crispy. Braaibroodjies are the perfect accompaniment to grilled meats and make for a satisfying and indulgent side dish. - Chakalaka:
Chakalaka is a spicy vegetable relish that adds a burst of flavor and heat to any braai spread. Made with a medley of chopped vegetables such as onions, peppers, carrots, and beans, chakalaka is simmered with spices, tomato sauce, and sometimes curry powder until thick and fragrant. Serve chakalaka as a zesty side dish or condiment to complement grilled meats, bread, or pap. - Potjiekos:
Potjiekos, meaning “small pot food” in Afrikaans, is a traditional South African stew cooked in a cast-iron potjie (pot) over an open flame. This slow-cooked dish typically features a combination of meats, vegetables, and spices layered in the pot and simmered until tender and flavorful. Popular ingredients include beef, lamb, chicken, potatoes, carrots, and herbs. Potjiekos is a communal meal often enjoyed at social gatherings and celebrations. - Braaied Snoek:
Snoek is a firm and flavorful fish native to South African waters, prized for its delicate texture and sweet, mild flavor. To prepare braaied snoek, the fish is butterflied and scored, then basted with a mixture of apricot jam, vinegar, and spices before grilling over hot coals until golden and caramelized. Serve braaied snoek with lemon wedges and a side of freshly baked bread for a delicious seafood feast. - Melktert:
No South African braai is complete without a sweet treat to round off the meal, and melktert fits the bill perfectly. Melktert, meaning “milk tart” in Afrikaans, is a creamy custard tart with a crisp pastry crust, flavored with vanilla and cinnamon. This indulgent dessert is a beloved South African classic, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth after a hearty braai feast.
Embrace the vibrant flavors and rich culinary heritage of South Africa with these traditional braai recipes. Whether you’re grilling succulent meats, simmering hearty stews, or indulging in sweet treats, a South African braai is a celebration of food, family, and community. So fire up the grill, gather your loved ones, and enjoy the taste of South Africa at your next BBQ.
